Tired of boring lunches or spending a fortune on takeout? Packing your own lunch can be a pain, but it doesn’t have to be. We’ve got 15 delicious and budget-friendly lunch ideas you can whip up in no time flat that you’ll actually want to eat. These recipes are perfect for busy mornings, and they’ll keep you fueled and happy all afternoon long.
Shortcut Chicken Salad
Skip the hot stove! This chicken salad uses canned chicken for a cool and refreshing lunch. It’s perfect for throwing together on busy mornings and can be enjoyed on greens, in a wrap, or on its own.
Get the Recipe: Shortcut Chicken Salad
Pesto Tuna Salad with Sundried Tomatoes
Level up your tuna salad with this twist! Pesto and sundried tomatoes add a burst of flavor for a delicious and affordable lunch that won’t break the bank.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Tuna Salad with Sundried Tomatoes
Chicken Taco Wraps
No time to cook? No problem! These wraps use leftover rotisserie chicken, so there’s no need to heat up the kitchen. They’re quick, easy, and cool, making them perfect for a hot day.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Taco Wraps
Asian-Inspired Turkey Burgers
Give your burger routine a makeover with these flavorful and juicy Asian-inspired turkey burgers. Packed with delicious spices and crunchy add-ins, they’re a fun twist on a classic favorite that’s quick and easy to make. These burgers are sure to satisfy your taste buds without all the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Asian-Inspired Turkey Burgers
Vegan Couscous Salad
Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of this salad! Fluffy couscous is tossed with colorful veggies for a vibrant and flavorful lunch. It’s filling enough to be a main course or a light side dish.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Couscous Salad
Bacon Egg Salad
This salad isn’t your average school lunch. Crispy bacon adds a smoky touch to creamy eggs, while a hint of pepper cuts through the richness. It’s a delicious and satisfying option for a quick lunch.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Egg Salad
Hearts of Palm Salad
Craving something light and refreshing? Look no further! Tender hearts of palm and crisp veggies mingle in a light vinaigrette for a summery salad that’s easy to love.
Get the Recipe: Hearts of Palm Salad
Spinach Caprese Salad
This salad is a filled with flavor! Baby spinach is topped with juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella pearls, creating a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and peppery flavors. It’s a simple yet satisfying combination that’s perfect for a quick lunch.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Caprese Salad
Harvest Quinoa Salad
This salad is a fall favorite! Fluffy quinoa is tossed with roasted butternut squash and crumbled feta cheese for a delicious combination of sweet, salty, and tart flavors. Every bite is a burst of fall goodness.
Get the Recipe: Harvest Quinoa Salad
Hot Ham Salad Sandwiches
Pure comfort food alert! Tender ham is smothered in a savory sauce and piled high on soft bread. This classic sandwich is perfect for a cozy lunch and will bring back memories of grandma’s cooking.
Get the Recipe: Hot Ham Salad Sandwiches
Avocado Tomato Salad
Skip the boring salad! This vibrant dish is packed with fresh summer vegetables and a homemade dressing that’s bursting with flavor. It’s a refreshing and delicious way to enjoy the taste of summer sunshine.
Get the Recipe: Avocado Tomato Salad
Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo
Take a trip to the Mediterranean with this flavorful dish! Tender chicken, aromatic herbs, and perfectly cooked orzo are tossed with creamy feta cheese, creating a symphony of delicious flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chicken with Orzo
Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad
Escape to the Mediterranean with this refreshing salad! Cool cucumbers and juicy tomatoes are tossed in a flavorful vinaigrette, capturing the essence of a summer day by the sea. It’s a light and easy lunch option.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Cucumber Tomato Salad
Kung Pao Chicken Salad
This salad is anything but boring! Tender chicken mingles with crunchy vegetables, all coated in a tangy sauce that packs a punch. It’s a complete meal in a bowl, perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken Salad
Tomato Quinoa Salad
This protein-packed salad is a healthy and delicious choice for lunch. Fluffy quinoa provides a base for a bounty of fresh vegetables, making it a refreshing and nourishing meal. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Quinoa Salad